Australian great Liz Ellis has launched a stinging attack on Netball New Zealand, after continuing to consider midcourter Laura Langman unavailable for selection.

Silver Ferns midcourter Laura Langman

Source: Photosport

After signing to play for the Sunshine Coast Lightning in Australia's domestic competition, Netball New Zealand's selection criteria deems Langman as ineligible to play for the Silver Ferns, instead choosing to only select those playing within the ANZ Premiership.

Ellis though, says that Langman's continued exclusion from the Silver Ferns will only hurt the game in New Zealand.

"Not having her in your line-up is the stupidest decision a sporting administration has ever made," Ellis told Fairfax.

"She's someone who's beyond reproach. She's outstanding in her position. You put her in the line and suddenly it's far more cohesive. I think the Silver Ferns lack that cohesion."

Langman's absence from the Silver Ferns was noticeable in the 49-45 loss to England this week, with Ellis singling out the midcourter as the missing piece in the jigsaw.

"I watched that game [against England] and I thought she would have been the difference well and truly."

"They don't have someone who wins the ball and organises the midcourt like she does."

The Silver Ferns will be hoping that Langman's continued absence doesn't return to hurt them, when they meet Australia in Invercargill tomorrow night.